Each number represents the year that it came into service with the M35 replacing the WW1 helmets in July of 1935. Below I will show an example of each helmet and explain the basic differences to help you spot them.

German helmets can be distinguished from one another by two main features - M35 had two ventilation holes at the edges made of separate details, and in modification M40 and M42 ventilation holes were stamped on the helmet itself. M42 edges were rounded out, meanwhile M35 and M40 skirt edges were beaded inside. M42 difference from M35 and M40

Apr 28, 2013 · I'm not an expert by any means, but the difference will be in the vent hole. If the vent is a separate piece, it's an M35. If the vent is stamped into the helmet, it's an M40. In M42s the vent will be stamped and the brim around the edge of the helmet will be unfolded. I can't zoom in on your photos... but it appears to be an M40.

In researching a German WWII helmet, collectors examine all aspects of the helmet--even using a jewelers loupe or a microscope. If you are new to collecting, it is essential to identify the following: The helmet variant (M35, M38, M40 or M42) The military branch (Heer, Luftwaffe, SS, Police, etc.) The manufacturer and the size of the helmet

Dec 27, 2021 · They key differences are: M35, large venthole riveted in place. M40, smaller vent hole now manufactured into the helmet. (On originals a different metallurgy as well but doesn't matter here.)

There are only three models of Third Reich era produced combat helmets. Collectors have named them M35 , M40 and M42. It is easy to spot the difference between them. The M35 vent hole is a separate produced piece and was pressed into the hot shell. Note the sharp features when compared to the pressed vent holes.

Apr 1, 2014 · When i look at the helm pictures i usually see that the M35 rolled rim is a bit "smaller" than the one on the M40. And did the weight increase by the size of the helmet?

“In 1935, a new design was introduced for german helmets. It was lighter, smaller and better suited to a mobile army. This basic model 1935 (designated M35) was modified in 1940 (M40) and again in late 1942 (M42). These three designs can be distinguished from each other by …

The M40 helmet substituted stamped air-vents for the pressed grommet air-vents but retained the rolled rim. The M42 has an unrolled rim to further cut time and machinery needs in helmet production. (See illustrations below) The M35 was produced until mid-1940 when the helmet manufacturers switched their tooling to produce the M40 version.

Jul 6, 2023 · The easiest way to distinguish the difference between an M35 or M40 is to look at the inside of the helmet where the vent holes are. If the surface around the vent is flat then it's an M35, if the holes are recessed then it's an M40.